It was the perfect weekend for soccer as Hauppauge United took to the field for the East Islip Fall Classic, facing off against tough competitors and showcasing impressive teamwork, skill, and heart. Over Columbus Day weekend, the team went head-to-head in four thrilling games, setting the tone with a strong start and ending with a decisive pair of victories.
Tournament Opener: Hauppauge United vs. West Side Red Bulls – 2-2 Draw
Hauppauge kicked off the tournament with a nail-biting 2-2 draw against the West Side Red Bulls. Tenley Jensen opened the scoring, followed by a powerful finish from Alexa Perlstadt, who found the back of the net with a skillful assist from defender Ashley Leinz. The team kept up a solid defense and resilient offense, signaling that they were here to compete.
Game 2: Hauppauge United vs. FC Copa Academy – 2-1 Victory
In their second game, Hauppauge United went head-to-head with FC Copa Academy from Brooklyn, clinching a hard-fought 2-1 victory. Defender Kika McDermott stole the show, scoring both goals—one unassisted and the other beautifully set up by Alexa Perlstadt. McDermott’s offensive prowess from the backline proved essential to securing Hauppauge’s first win of the tournament.
Sunday Matchups vs. Sachem Slammers Black
Sunday brought two games against Sachem Slammers Black, where Hauppauge’s players displayed cohesion and creativity in both offense and defense.
In the first match, Hauppauge dominated with a 4-2 win. Aleyna Horasanli showcased her playmaking skills, connecting with Ashley Leinz, who buried the ball in the net with a powerful shot. Tenley Jensen powered her way through defenders for another goal, and Alexa Perlstadt assisted Emma Pinelli to add to the tally. Defender Ashley Leinz again surged up the field, scoring after a fantastic individual effort.
The second match was a rematch, and Hauppauge maintained their momentum, finishing with a convincing 4-1 victory. Emma Pinelli’s determination paved the way for Tenley Jensen’s goal, while Aleyna Horasanli’s patience paid off with a stunning strike of her own. Horasanli then set up Perlstadt for another goal, while Pinelli broke through to score herself, putting an exclamation point on the game.
Defensive Standouts and Team Effort
Hauppauge United’s defense was rock solid throughout the tournament. Daniella Pinzon directed the ball upfield and created opportunities from the back. Emersyn Drake demonstrated versatility, excelling in both field play and goalkeeping, where she made critical saves. Kaitlyn Asseng brought her defensive brilliance, consistently winning battles and setting up offensive plays. Kensie Buscher was attentive and quick in goal, keeping opponents at bay with her sharp instincts, and played confidently in the field, leading transitions into attack.
A Weekend to Remember
Hauppauge United walked away from the East Islip Fall Classic with a series of impressive performances, finishing with two wins, a draw, and a single goal conceded in their final two games. They left their mark on the tournament, proving that teamwork, determination, and skill can overcome any challenge.
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